Tag: Polestar

  • Polestar Introduces Performance Optimisation for Volvo’s Drive-E T6 Models

    Performance Optimisation for Volvo’s Drive-E T6 - First PicturePolestar has just introduced the new generation Performance Optimisation for Volvo’s Drive-E T6 models with four-wheel drive. So this is exclusive, since we received the news directly from Polestar minutes ago. Actually, this optimization has been already available for the Volvo XC90 T6 AWD, but from today Polestar is offering it for the S60, V60 and XC60 T6 AWD models as well.

    As a result, the powerful and agile T6 AWD models become even more dynamic and responsive. The secret hides in the fact that the package is really balanced and is based on Polestar’s methods for boosting their race and performance cars. At the heart of the Polestar Optimisation is something very curious: it actually includes the entire powertrain in the optimization, instead of only the engine.

    SEE ALSO: Polestar “Carbonizes” Volvo V40 

    In addition, the optimization includes five substantial areas: increased mid-range engine performance, faster gearshifts, optimized throttle response, optimized gearshift timing and off-throttle functionality. As a result the driver gets faster and more exact responses from his/her Volvo and of course – more predictable behavior. Those five features are important for all forms of active driving, being on racing circuit or on “basic” roads.

    Throttle Response

    Performance Optimisation for Volvo’s Drive-E T6 - Second Picture

    After the improvement of this feature, the cars can now offer better feedback and response. For instance, this happens when overtaking or during active driving on a twisty road. The engine responds faster to the commands of the driver, and this is how it delivers enhanced precision in the driving experience.

    Gearshift Speed

    The increased gearshift speed results in faster acceleration and more direct commands of the driver. Imagine when shifting down fast ahead of an overtaking maneuver, this faster gearbox provides you with more direct control of your vehicle.

    Gearshift Precision and Gear Hold

    The calibration of the gearshifts results in more direct and precise driving experience and as mentioned – faster acceleration. The modified gearshift points use optimized mid-range performance of the unit, while the gear hold function holds the gear during cornering at high lateral g-forces.

    Off-Throttle Response

    Performance Optimisation for Volvo’s Drive-E T6 Third Picture

    Calibration has happened not only for the gearbox but for the engine, too. As a result, the driver gets faster response during a short period of braking ahead of a corner. All is about enhanced control after all.

    Engine Performance

    All Drive-E optimizations are about better performance especially when driving actively. All in all, this means that the improved mid-range performance combined with the changes for the gearbox and throttle response makes the car more dynamic and responsive to drive, thus enhancing the overall engaging driving experience.

    Source: Polestar 

  • Polestar Releases Volvo S60 and V60 Polestar Scott McLaughlin Editions

    Volvo S60 and V60 Polestar Scott McLaughlin Editions Side ViewVolvo S60 and V60 Polestar Scott McLaughlin Editions are going to be marketed throughout New Zealand. There will be only ten examples of these ultra limited edition cars. The vehicles are characterized by exclusive styling upgrades like the new black wheels, embroidered headrests with McLaughlin’s signature, colour-coded side skirts and etc. In other terms, the models are technically identical to the Volvo S60 and V60 Polestar.

    McLaughlin is the most famous racer in Volvo’s Polestar Racing. He competes in the V8 Supercars where he has achieved four victories, ten podium finishes and ten pole positions and this is only the last season.

    SEE ALSO: Polestar “Carbonizes” Volvo V40

    But when one buys the car, he or she will not only get to own it. They will get the opportunity to properly drive their Volvo S60 or V60 Polestar under McLaughlin’s tuition.

    Polestar Upgrades

    Volvo S60 and V60 Polestar Scott McLaughlin Editions Side View

    Chassis’ rigidity has been increased and features 80% stiffer springs. Combined with the Öhlins shock absorbers and 20” Polestar wheels, the cars will deliver great driving experience and at the same time comfortable.

    Furthermore, the brake system was also updated. It features 371 millimetre ventilated front discs and six-piston Brembo calipers. This perfectly complements the increased performance. By the way the latter wasn’t; achieved only by engine tuning, but also via some aero changes.

    Great aerodynamic effects have been achieved through new front splitters, which optimize the airflow underneath the car. There are also new rear spoiler and diffusor that increase downforce.

    Engine

    Volvo S60 and V60 Polestar Scott McLaughlin Editions are powered by a six-cylinder turbocharged T6 engine. The unit has undergone extensive modifications and includes new twin-scroll turbo and intercooler. It is capable of producing 350hp (257 kW) at 5700 rpm and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) already at 2800 rpm. The engine is linked to a 2.5” stainless steel exhaust system that also contributes for the throaty engine sound.

    The drivetrain is coupled with a six-speed automatic gearbox with new paddle shift system. Combined with the Haldex four-wheel drive system, the result is 0-100 km/h acceleration time covered in just 4.9 seconds. The top speed is limited to 250 km/h.

    Scott McLaughlin Detailing

    Volvo S60 and V60 Polestar Scott McLaughlin Editions Interior

    The cabin features new details, materials and Polestar colors. This is visible throughout the numbered plaque in steering wheel décor inlay steering wheel as well as the seats with embroidered headrests with Scott’s signature.

    The exterior is characterized by Scott McLaughlin Limited Edition exterior badges, colour-coded side skirts, black wheels and grille surround.

    Source: Polestar 

  • Volvo Compares 855 T5-R and V60 Polestar

    Volvo-855-T5-R-and-V60-Polestar-THUMBVolvo 855 T5-R was officially unveiled 20 years ago, in 1994. The car was dedicated to performance and in fact was the first estate model from Volvo. To celebrate this anniversary, Polestar brought 855 T5-R together with its current heir: the mighty Volvo V60 Polestar, at the Huntington Beach in California. 855 T5-R featured a five-cylinder turbo-charged R5 2319 engine, which was capable of producing 240 hp (176 kW) and 330 Nm (244 lb-ft). The unit was coupled with a four-speed auto gearbox and featured a front-wheel drive.

    The 0-100 km/h acceleration sprint was covered by it in 7.0 seconds. The deceleration from 100 to 0 km/h happened in 45 meters, thanks to the front brakes including 1 piston calipers and 280 mm discs. The top speed of the car was 245 km/h.

    The chassis was specifically developed, thus making the car one of the fastest estate models of its time and an iconic performance vehicle. Suspension here included MacPherson Strut, Coil Springs, Hydraulic Shock Absorbers and Stabilizer Bar. Alloys were 17 inch and were fitted with 205/45 tyres.

    Unlike the 855 T5-R, which weighs 1600 kg, Volvo V60 Polestar is much heavier: 1834 kg. Another difference includes a R6 2953 cc engine, which is capable of a way more powerful output of 350 hp (257 kW) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft). The unit is coupled with a six-speed auto transmission and features a 4-wheel dirve.

    Of course, the acceleration is faster with 2.1 seconds, while the deceleration is shorter with 11 meters, thanks to the 6 piston calipers and 371 mm discs. The top speed f the car is 250 km/h. In the suspension is featured again the MacPherson Strut and Coil Springs, but adds Polestar Öhlins Shock Absorbers and Carbon Fibre Clad Stabilizer Bar. The rims here are 20 inch and the tyres – in the dimension of 245/35.

    Source: Volvo 

  • Polestar Volvo V60 D6 Plug-in Hybrid – More Power

    Polestar is now offering a power upgrade for Volvo V60 D6 Plug-in Hybrid. The super-economical touring car boasts impressive performance and extremely low fuel consumption.

    The powertrain includes a 2.4 liter five-cylinder diesel and an electric motor – combined output of 302HP (222 kW) and 670Nm (494 lb-ft) of torque. This is an increase of 16HP (11 kW) and 30Nm (22 lb-ft) of torque compared to the normal version. The power is put on the road through a 6-speed automatic gearbox. This is the most powerful diesel-powered Volvo ever.

    0-100 km/h in 6.0 seconds and a top speed of 230 km/h (143 mph) – electronically limited. The Polestar version is 0.1 seconds quicker than the normal model. The combined fuel consumption is just 1.8 liters / 100 km (130.6 mpg US or 157 mpg UK) with CO2 emissions of 48 g/km.

    The electric motor is powered by a 11.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack installed under the floor of the load compartment.

    The power upgrade is offered with warranty and can be purchased in Sweden, UK and The Netherlands. The price is available upon request and installation should be made through official dealer.

    Source: Polestar Racing

  • New Volvo V60 Polestar To Be Presented At Goodwood [VIDEO]

    Volvo-V60-Polestar-THUMBBrand New Volvo V60 Polestar is going to be officially premiered at the iconic Goodwood Festival of Speed. As we already know, the event will happen between 26th and 29th of June. If we compare it a motorsport garden party, then the festival will definitely be the largest in the world. The unique summer weekend will bring together an impossibly mix of cars, stars and motor sport royalty. Among them will be the new Volvo V60 Polestar, which is going to perform a number of hill runs during the festival and it will also be available at the exhibition area.

    What is specific about this car is that it includes a thoroughly developed chassis with high performance dampers and brakes. These come in combination with four-wheel drive and 350 hp (257 kW) which come from the turbo charged 6-cylinder engine.

    Developed from 17 years of motorsport experience, the new V60 Polestar, makes the 0-100 km/h sprint in just 4.9 seconds. The development of the car has been ongoing over the past years, picking up from the C30 and S60 Concept cars and the Australian S60 Polestar. Thousands of development kilometres have been driven on mountain roads, o test tracks from the south of Europe to the frozen north of Sweden.

    The countries set to receive the S60 and V60 Polestar include Canada, Netherlands, Japan, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom and the USA. British racing driver Anthony Reid, who was a tough competitor for Volvo in the BTCC during the nineties, tested the Volvo at the Goodwood circuit earlier. You can see what he says about his experience in the video below:

    httpv://youtu.be/zs2NrKvqnDQ

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Volvo

  • Volvo Polestar S60 and V60 Revealed

    2013-Volvo-S60-and-V-60-Polestar-shadow2013-Volvo-S60-and-V-60-Polestar-medium2

    They are here! The new (ice) cool Volvo S60 and V60 Polestar machines that is. These two crowd-pleasers have drawn inspiration from the C30 and S60 Concept cars and the Australian S60 Polestar and are to mark “the start of an extended Polestar production model range.” Yes please.

    So what are these for?

    Not a fan of the M3? Go for the underdog then; or for that slightly bigger underdog, the V60. The point is, there will always be some appeal in the non-mainstream.

    Are they any good though?

    Of course they are. Well, not 444 hp (BMW M3) good, but still packing a punch.Keep in mind that we are talking about a T6 (six-cylinder) engine that still puts out 350 hp at 5700 rpm and the amazing 500 Nm of torque at barely 2800 rpm. That power is sent to all fours through the Polestar developed Haldex all-wheel drive system and the six-speed automatic gearbox. No wording on anything with a stick, just paddle shifts. As a result the Polestars propel themselves from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.9 seconds and have a limited top speed of 155 mph

    It’s not just sheer grunt though. The Polestar boffins have worked on the chassis, making the springs 80% stiffer than the standard ones on the S60 R-Design. Inside of them, they have slid high-performance Öhlins shock absorbers to cope with the stresses. A highlight of handling are also the front 371 mm brake disks with six-piston Brembo calipers on them. Minor aerodynamic tweaking has also been at play when developing the Polestar S/V 60 (as the teaser suggested). The ones with the most keen eyes will notice the subtle front splitter, the rear spoiler and the diffusor at the lower end.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPJ-ttLB-cc

    Here’s a list that bares it all:

    Full Technical Specification

    Performance

    0-62 mph 4.9 sec

    0-124 mph 17.7 sec

    Top speed 155 mph – Electronically limited

    Chassis

    Polestar Öhlins shock absorber system

    Polestar bespoke rims, 8×20” ET53 with 245/35R20 tyres

    Engine

    6-cylinder inline T6 engine, 2953 cc

    350 hp @ 5700 rpm

    500 Nm (369 lb-ft) @ 2800-4750 rpm

    Max 6500 rpm

    New twin-scroll Borg Warner turbo

    New intercooler

    Polestar 2.5” stainless full-flow exhaust system with twin 3.5” tail pipes

    Weight

    V60 Polestar: 1822 kg

    Transmission

    AWF21 automatic gearbox with paddle shift system

    Polestar transmission calibration for faster gearshifts, launch control and curve-hold functionality

    Polestar Haldex calibration for more rear torque dynamic distribution

    Polestar calibrated stability control system

    Brakes

    Front: Polestar/Brembo 6 piston brake calipers

    371×32 mm ventilated and floating Brembo discs

    Rear: 302×22 mm ventilated discs

    Source: Volvo

  • First Production Polestar Volvo S60 Released

    Polestar-Volvo-S60-THUMBWorld’s first production Polestar Volvo S60 is already here. The limited production run has been developed for the Australian market debuting as a pilot project and the first examples will have their delivery late June this year.

    One of the highlight in the development of this Volvo is the extensive work done on the chassis. This included over thousands of kilometers test that have been lead in Europe under different road and weather conditions.

    What is more, S60 Polestar includes technological innovations taken from racing cars, like dampers from Öhlins, high capacity brakes, and the extensively developed, highly-tuned chassis. In addition, a new aerodynamic package has also been featured. The latter includes front splitter, rear wing and diffuser.

    The car draws its power from a six-cylinder turbo-charged Volvo T6 engine. It has been optimized by Polestar with a bigger turbo, new intercooler, revised engine mapping and racing exhaust. The result is that it is now capable of delivering 350 hp (257 kW) or 257kW and 500 Nm (370 lb-ft) of torque.

    This basically means that Volvo S60 Polestar accelerates from standstill to 100km/h in only 4.9 seconds on the way to a top speed of 250 km/h. Its engine is mated to a Polestar-tuned six-speed automatic gearbox – which also features a launch control system – and a Polestar-tuned Haldex 4WD system.

    Polestar Volvo S60 Technical Specifications

    Performance

    • 0-100 km/h 4.9 sec
    • Top speed 250 km/h – limited

    Engine

    • 6-cylinder inline T6 engine, 2953 cc
    • 257kw (350bhp) @ 5700 rpm
    • 500+Nm @ 2800-4750rpm
    • Max 6500 RPM

    Polestar engine software

    • New Borg Warner turbo
    • New intercooler
    • 2.5″ stainless full-flow exhaust system with 3.5″ tail pipes

    Chassis

    • Polestar Öhlins, 2-way adjustable shock absorbers
    • Upgraded springs
    • o 60N/mm front, 65N/mm rear. (80% stiffer than stock)
    • Upgraded stabilizers front and rear
    • Upgraded rear tie blades
    • Upgraded top mount in front and rear
    • Upgraded toe link arms in rear
    • Strut brace with carbonfiber enforcement
    • 235/40R19, Michelin Pilot Super Sport
    • Bespoke Polestar rims, 8×19″ ET51

    Weight

    • 1684kg – same as standard S60 T6 R-Design

    Drivetrain

    • AWF21 automatic gearbox
    • Launch control
    • Modified transmission software for faster shifts and launch control
    • Modified AWD software for more rear torque

    Brakes

    Front:

    • 336×29 mm ventilated discs
    • Jurid 958 performance brake pad

    Rear:

    • 302×22 mm ventilated discs
    • HP2000 Brembo performance brake pads

    Aero

    • New Polestar front splitter corners
    • New Polestar rear spoiler
    • New Polestar diffuser

    Interior/Exterior

    • Polestar door trims
    • Polestar badge on front grille
    • Polestar badge on boot
    • Polestar gear shift knob
    • Polestar badge on engine
    • Polestar limited edition plate on door sills and steering wheel
    • Black outside mirror covers

    Source: Volvo

  • Volvo Polestar Racing With New 2013 STCC Program [VIDEO]

    Volvo-Polestar-THUMBThe new program 2013 STCC of Volvo Polestar Racing has just been unveiled at a presentation for partners and employees at the Volvo headquarters in Gothenburg. For this motorsport season Polestar’s racing cars have been updated to the new 2014 Volvo S60.

    To be more precise, five races in three different teams were selected: Volvo Polestar Racing with Fredrik Ekblom and Thed Björk, Volvo Polestar Performance with Robert Dahlgren and Linus Ohlsson and Volvo Polestar with Prince Carl Philip Bernadotte. Each team’s car has its own unique design done by Prince Carl Philip.

    Other news that has leaked ahead of the motorsport season is that half of the race weekends is going to include the traditional STCC format with two races of 20 minutes each. However, four racers will remain and they will feature a single race of 40 minutes.

    Furthermore, the qualifying has been also altered. Now it is similar to Formula One’s system. This means it includes three different sessions (Q1 to Q3) where the five fastest drivers gets to decide the grid for the race in the final session (Q3).

    The beginning of the STCC season is on 4th of May at Knutstorp, Sweden. The track is very emblematic for Volvo, because the brand has achieved the most number of victories there. Afterwards the season will continue with seven races at tracks like Solvalla in Stockholm, home track Gothenburg City Arena and the season finale at Mantorp Park on the 21st of September.

    httpv://youtu.be/9wiItD68TUg

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Polestar

  • Optimized: Polestar Volvo V40 T4

    Polestar Volvo V40 T4 is the latest model which adds to the Polestar Performance range. The car includes optimization thanks to which its power is increased to 200 hp (147 kW) and 285 Nm (210 lb-ft).

    The aspiring chassis of the Volvo makes it one of the most enjoyable vehicles to drive. With this transformation, Polestar is opting to deliver even more driving fun. Furthermore, the same optimization can be also done for the S60, V60, S80 and V70 T4 models and it will increase their power with 20 hp (15 kW) and 45 Nm (33 lb-ft).

    In the present case, the Polestar V40 T4 delivers not only optimized power and torque, but also more fun in driving, and at the same time as it enhances the safety in risky situations. In addition to this, although the power output has been increased this doesn’t affect the fuel consumption which is equal to the one of the standard model.

    Source: Polestar

  • Volvo Reveals C30 Polestar Limited Edition

    Volvo-C30-Polestar-Limited-Edition-THUMBVolvo C30 Polestar Limited Edition is one of the sportiest-looking Volvo’s ever produced. In addition, under the hood is where the true excitement begins, because there is placed the C30’s standard 2.5-liter turbocharged 5-cylinder engine.

    As a matter of fact it had received a healthy performance upgrade done by Polestar – Volvo’s official performance partner. The result is a boosted output by 23 horsepower and 37 lb.-ft. of torque to 250 hp (184 lb-ft) and 370 Nm (273 lb.-ft.).

    To go even further into details, what Polestar has done is to re-calibrated important parameters that control the engine. Some of them are the following: increase of turbocharger boost pressure, re-optimization of ignition- and fuel-mapping, re-calibration of throttle-response.

    As a result, the driver can now enjoy faster throttle response, greatly improved mid-range torque and extra power. Safer passing performance and an enhanced sportier driving experience is what is also added via those changes.

    In terms of exterior the C30 Polestar Limited Edition is improved thanks to the new 17-inch Styx Alloy Wheels with Matte Black Finish and Polestar badges on the rear and sides of the vehicle. On the other and, the interior has a sporty cabin, which is dressed with Premium Leather Seating Surfaces in a choice of Off-Black or two-tone Off-Black and Calcite.

    Furthermore, some of the standard features here include the following: Power Glass Moonroof, Power Driver’s Seat with 3-Position Memory, Power Front Passenger Seat, Loadcover, Soft, Auto Dimming Rearview Mirror with Compass, LED Daytime Running Lights, Keyless Drive, Active Dual Xenon Headlights.

    Volvo C30 Polestar Limited Edition will be produced in only 250 units.

    Source: Volvo

  • The LA Motor Show: Best of the debuts

    2014 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupe Black SeriesAs the curtain drops on another year, the motoring industry will conclude the last 12 months with the final major motor show of the year which is being showcased in Los Angeles from November 30. Over 40 new cars will make their debuts from a whole range of manufacturers over the course of the 10 days the exhibition is open.

    Based in the heart of the city at the LA Convention Centre, the motor show will see such cars as the Mercedes SLS AMG Black Series and BMW’s new i4 Concept being revealed. Low key cars will also make their public debuts and the following is a few of the best of what to expect from the LA Motor Show.

    Mercedes SLS AMG Black Series

    The Stuttgart outfit has already wowed us this year with the C63 AMG Coupe Black Series which offers raw performance for the road through Mercedes’ 6.2 litre V8 and the addition of aero parts to make the car look positively ferocious. Now, the same treatment has been given to the brilliant SLS which boasts an increase in power of 59bhp, meaning it now produces 622bhp and an even more explicit exhaust note thanks to a change of materials from steel to titanium for the exhaust system itself.

    BMW i4 Concept

    After already showcasing their i3 and i8 models, BMW will now reveal another in its electric line-up and is expected to be a compact sports coupe to fit between the i3’s city car and i8’s sports car credentials. The i4 could very well use the i3’s running gear and is expected to have just the two seats available in the cabin, whilst sticking to the hybrid mantra of its electric sister models and feature the same 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo-charged hybrid system. Low fuel and emissions is key for the range and with the i8 having a proposed 78mpg, the i4 should be easily be able to match it, if not offer more.

    Ford Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost

    Targeted directly at the US market, Ford will put on display the new EcoBoost Fiesta in LA and show off its capabilities as a frugal petrol-powered vehicle. The Fiesta’s three-cylinder engine will emit just 114g/km of CO2, but offer 123bhp on tap and its weight saving under the bonnet should enable more than capable handling. When it goes on sale next year, the EcoBoost Fiesta will be the only three-cylinder car available in the States as Ford look to challenge the hybrid market with a petrol-powered car that can achieve around 60mpg, but still offer fun driving dynamics, as well as helping those in Europe too who look to compare fuel cards.

    Volvo S60 Polestar Concept

    Another exciting LA Motor Show debut is Volvo’s new Polestar model, the S60, which follows on from the C30 Polestar Concept that excited many a motoring journalist with its manic capabilities. The S60 Polestar features a 3.0-litre straight-six offering a massive 508bhp; over 200bhp up from the standard S60. That’s enough to get the four-door saloon from 0-62mph in just 3.9 seconds. A widened chassis, uprated brakes and a four-wheel drive system all make the car a very intruiging prospect indeed.

    About the author: Sam Bisby writes for UK Fuels who offer fuel card solutions for those looking for a great deal when comparing fuel cards.

  • Volvo S60 Polestar revealed at Gothenburg City Race

    Volvo-S60-Polestar-THUMBVolvo S60 Polestar is the latest concept road-car created by Polestar. It is based on the S60 model of Volvo and it is going to take part in the 2012 season in the new Swedish racing series TTA – Racing Elite League.

    Furthermore, there has been developed not only a race-car model, but also a street-version. The official launch of the vehicle already happened few days ago at the third race round of the TTA series held at Polestar’s home track in downtown Gothenburg, Sweden.

    Polestar focuses on the development and competition in racing. The development and marketing of performance products for Volvo cars are based on the experience from racing. Polestar started research and evaluation-program to collect and compile vehicle data from the S60 platform, and eventually ended up creating the following product.

    Volvo S60 Polestar
    Volvo S60 Polestar

    In fact, Volvo S60Polestar is very strong Volvo with great potential for motorsport applications and also an almost ideal platform for a road-going performance car. We all know that Volvo bodies are strong and have solid designs, which make them ideal for building race cars.

    S60 Polestar is to a great extent based on standard Volvo S60 T6 components. It is another result motorsport and performance experience in combination with in-depth knowledge about the car and its technology.

    Source: Polestar